78,000 Ladders Sold at Lowes and Home Depot Recalled
Learn about the latest major ladder recall, how recalls work, the dangers of ladders, and how to stay safe when using a ladder.
Whether you’re tackling a do-it-yourself project or work in construction here in Greater Los Angeles, you already know ladders are dangerous even when they work perfectly. But when ladders suffer from a product defect, they become ticking time bombs that can result in severe injuries, including death.
Recently, Werner Ladders recalled 78,000 ladders sold at Home Depot and Lowes during April and May of 2018. The following model numbers with corresponding “date codes” of 121744XX or 011844XX have been recalled:
- MT-IAA-13A (13 feet)
- MT-IAA-17A (17 feet)
- MT-IAA-22A (22 feet)
- MT-IAA-26 (26 feet)
- MT-IAA-26A (26 feet)
(See HERE and HERE for additional information.)
How Does a Ladder Recall Work
A ladder recall occurs when the manufacturer or the Consumer Product Safety Commission becomes aware that a product falls below acceptable standards and is deemed dangerous. If you have a defective ladder and have not been injured, the remedy is a refund. On the other hand, if you or a loved one has been injured or worse due to a defective ladder, your remedy is monetary compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, costs of medical care, lost income, loss of quality of life, and other damages.
Falls from ladders can include the following types of injuries:
- Traumatic brain injury, including concussions
- Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries, including permanent paralysis
- Nerve and neurological damage
- Fractures and broken bones
- Wrongful death
- Torn tendons and dislocation of joints
Steps to Help Prevent Serious Ladder Injuries
To avoid a ladder fall injury accident, here are some easy-to-follow tips:
- Inspect your ladder before each use
- For every 4 feet of ladder, put it 1 foot away from the base of the wall for a 75 degree angle
- Extend the ladder at least 3 feet above the height of the the roof or surface line
- Set the ladder’s feet on firm, level ground
- Always have 3 points of contact with the ladder (example, 2 feet and 1 hand)
- Stay in the center of the rungs for stability
- Never step on the top two rungs
(See HERE.)
Get the Best Compensation You Deserve
While many mass recalls result in a class-action lawsuit, it is important to know that your injuries are unique and being lumped in with others may be against your best interests. Our staff, investigators, and aggressive, award-winning Los Angeles personal injury lawyers will provide you with the individual attention you need to maximize your recovery through a product liability lawsuit.
The Dominguez Firm has experienced product liability lawyers to assist and get you the compensation you deserve. If there is no recovery, there is no fee! Call now for a free consultation at 800-818-1818.